A Court of Thorns and Roses
discussion
What do we think about the ending with Rhysand? [Spoilers]
Could it be that Spring Court betrayed Night Court?Or Night betrayed Spring.
The thing is, if Night and Hybern were enemies, why did the Night Court remain untouched? Assuming Rhysand's story is true (which I'm not sold on) and Amarantha took revenge, what about the king? Why is he letting this "enemy" court thrive? Maybe he's just biding his time, of course. But if Amarantha truly was trying to get back at Rhysand/the Night Court, than it wouldn't be untouched, like Lucien mentioned.
I also don't know if I buy that Amarantha was punishing Rhysand--or rather, that it was her intention to punish the killer of her friend. We've seen what she does to those she's punishing. With Rhysand, she uses him as a pawn and lackey--not a prisoner. He has more privileges than anyone else. You don't give privileges to someone you hate and want to punish. She let him come and go beneath the mountain. She let him overrule her original plan for Feyre to make her keep my doing chores. She didn't do anything when he insulted her by making that bargain with Feyre. She let him leave during Fire Night, and gives him a ton of freedom.
Think about it. Why would you give all that freedom and trust to someone you were punishing? Makes no sense.
Her intention was to go after ALL the High Lord's. It's not like Rhysand was the only target. She'd go after him regardless of any past because what she wanted was power. Believe it or not, I think once his power was taken and he realized he was beat, he pursued her and did whatever he could to be in her good graces--including serving in her bedroom.
"You traitorous piece of filth," she seethed at Rhysand. "You're just as bad as these human beasts. You were planning this all along."
Those are the words of someone who feels betrayed. Saying he was planning this ALL ALONG indicates that he was the one who pursued her and had a plan from the start.
I don't think it has anything to do with Rhys's dad's history. I think the only reason Rhysand became her whore was because that was the mask he believed would give him the best advantage to finding a way to bring her down.
Amaratha probably ate it up, and used to him to her benefit. He wasn't treated like her whore--she treated him like her ally. Never once in public did we see her use him in a "whore-ish" way--especially when you compare how Feyre behaved as a "someone's whore." He might have gone to her bedroom at night, but she treated him like her ally, her right hand man, in public.
Also, if Tamlin's dad and Spring were against the Night Court, why is Tamlin still against the Night Court when he's apparently not like his dad? Why does he consider Rhys and the Night Court to be his enemy? Shouldn't they be allies?
I personally think Rhys's dad and Tam's dad were allies, hence why Rhys trained Tam in the ways of swords and females. (And yes, I definitely think Rhysand is older than Tamlin) But I think there was a falling out, some sort of disagreement, that lead to them becoming enemies. And then, Rhys's dad killed Tam's family. Rhys could have asked Tamlin's life be spared--or maybe Rhys killed his dad before he could kill Tamlin out of their past friendship.
Originally, he was hoping to sleep with her or hook up with her to get revenge on Tamlin.
Honestly I don't think he's that petty. I think he probably enjoys giving Tamlin a hard time for sure, but I don't see him as the petty revenge type--not when he has more important matters like freeing himself and his court.
Did everyone see the Q and A someone did with Lucien, Tamlin, Feyre and Rhysand (written by Sarah J. maas so its official?) Closest thing we've had to a teaser and omfg not going to lie I was so excited I mean:To all of you, what is your pet peeve?
Feyre: Everything out of Lucien’s mouth. And anything a certain High Lord of the Night Court does.
Rhys: *smiles at Feyre* Illiterate humans who don’t appreciate when they’re being helped. And, like sweet Feyre said, one-eyed Spring Court flunkies who need to learn to keep their mouths shut.
Look at the chemistry they have in like 2 lines?! You can feel that tension. Like this is written by SJ. Maas...these two already have such dynamic and witty interactions, I'm literally living for their banter in book two. My favourite is:
Any hint as to what's coming next? *shifty eyes*
Feyre: ………Your guess is as good as mine about what’s coming next. Hopefully no one.
Rhys: *smiles slowly*
*o* *o* *o* *o*
....what. does. this. mean....I need to knowwww...just 3 more months
Heres the link btw:
http://queenofthebookshelves.blogspot...
Yes I saw it! Poor Tamlin, thinking all is sunshine and roses. He has a rude awakening. :P
Alyana wrote: "Olya wrote: "Notice how Feyre started thinking of Rhysand as Rhys as the book progressed hehe."It's funny because I just read an analysis of this very switch in names: http://xnightwolfx.tumblr.c..."
If I could insert a clapping and crying gif I would. This was absolutely beautiful. And I couldn't have said it better myself. I love how Sarah did this. Also am I the only one who noticed this little part?!:
"Rhysand was taking longer than usual to summon me—though it was probably because of the
supple-bodied faerie perched in his lap, caressing his hair with her long greenish fingers. He’d tire of
her soon."
I LOVE with how much confidence she states this. Also I noticed something. This happened after the second trial and when they had their first more open conversation. I find it odd that right after Rhysand took his time summoning her. Was it because of the conversation (and the vision she had) or was it another game to trick Amarantha?
I also really like the comment about how loyal Rhys is when you have won it. He did more for Feyre than even Lucien at that moment (but Lucien was still great). Which makes me think...maybe Tamlin betrayed Rhysand? Parents aside they would't end a friendship based on that. And Rhys proved what loyalty and friendship means to him. So either he grew a lot over the years, or this is plausible.
WinterRose wrote: "Could it be that Spring Court betrayed Night Court?
Or Night betrayed Spring.
The thing is, if Night and Hybern were enemies, why did the Night Court remain untouched? Assuming Rhysand's story is..."
And notice that people called him whore with such anger and bitterness. You don't do that to someone who is taken advantage of like that unless... they're not. But while I think too that Rhysand pursued her, I don't think she truly thought that he cared about her. My thought is in the beginning she KNEW why he was doing what he did. But she let herself be coaxed by his charm and her ego to believe it. Or simply enough time passed that she thought he was on the harmless side. They played these petty games a lot. It says something. When he opens up to Feyre about being made to serve in her bedroom he was being honest. In a way he is because deep down Amarantha would/should know that he's biding his time. She doesn't care about him. She's lenient with him, yes, But she doesn't exactly trust him completely. She tolerates him and you can see that in the way she treats him in public. I get the feeling the only one she would actually like would be Tamlin. Which is not a compliment because Amarantha was a complete psychopath. And I agree that some things just don't add up. I think that night and spring were once allies and something went dreadfully wrong. We'll find out.
Lily-Rose wrote: "Did everyone see the Q and A someone did with Lucien, Tamlin, Feyre and Rhysand (written by Sarah J. maas so its official?) Closest thing we've had to a teaser and omfg not going to lie I was so ex..."
Sarah doesn't even try to hide it anymore! Rhysand is 1000% charm.
Ha! Love Rhys's slow subtle smile in the end. ;)ALSO-
Feyre: "….........Your guess is as good as mine about what’s coming next. Hopefully no one."
Me:
Loved that interview! Btw am I the only one who wants Rhys to end up with someone completely new instead of Feyre or one of her sisters..?
I like how Rhysand mentioned Lucien talking as a pet peeve too after that little comment about Feyre and Tamlin ;)
That interview was great! Poor Lucien.
HAHA Aqsa that gif is just gold. @ G. Yes they sounded too modern to me as well.
Personally I never care about the humans in a book full of powerful immortals. Mostly because they're weak and useless. lol Not always the case, as seen in Throne of Glass. Plenty of awesome humans there. :D But so far in ACOTAR, I could care less about Nesta or Elain. I'm still annoyed with how terribly they treated Feyre and their awful personalities. lol
But guys, look at this. This was on page 368, after Feyre just finished her second task and she was crying and Rhysand came in:"I pulled away, but his hands were like shackles. I could do nothing as his mouth met with my cheek, and he licked away a tear. His tounge was hot againts my skin, so startling that I coudn't move as he licked away another path of salt water, and then another. My body went taut and loose all at once and I burned, even as chills shuddered along my limbs. It was only when his tounge danced along the damp edges of my lashes that I jerked back.
He smirked, sitting down againts the wall. "I figured that would get you to stop crying."
"It was disgusting." I wiped my face again.
"Was it?" He quirked an eyebrow and pointed to his palm-to the place where my tattoo would be. "Beneath all your pride and stubbornness, I could have sworn I detected something that felt differently. Interesting."
I think its safe to say that something is going on there. Am I the only one? Even though Feyre loved Tamlin and she was such an emotional disaster here, and beneath all her pride and stubbornnes, like Rhysand said, she liked it and she was a little attractive to him right then. Right? Am I the only one seeing this?
Samantha wrote: "But guys, look at this. This was on page 368, after Feyre just finished her second task and she was crying and Rhysand came in:"I pulled away, but his hands were like shackles. I could do nothing..."
Absolutely. We basically find out from the beginning that Feyre is not only attracted to him (even if she doesn't want to be) but that she seems to have chemistry with him. She's more aware of him than she ever was with Tamlin.
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"MASTER OF EVERYTHING"
YOOOOOOOO HOLY SHIT. This sounds like a scene where Feyre may have discovered WHAT her powers really are and/or what their potential is!
Oh my gosh. This is everything!Love-Love-Love that quote.
Question: How do you find the receipt of a pre-order? I have pre-ordered from Amazon before...but I'm not really sure how to find it.
@CatcherR Here you go! https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/custom...
You can save the file as a pdf and then upload that invoice file in the form!
Thank you! This helps so much.
I get the vibe that his unhappiness has to do with family and whatever happened to to him. Your analysis of the Amarantha-Rhys relationship is pretty spot on.
About the quote we got:
"No-one was my master--But I might be master of everything, if I wished. If I dared. "
Theories!
I think that the foreshadowing heavily points towards a future-controlling ability...but what if she has more! Rhys can look into minds...but also crush them. So what if she is a double edged blade? Two related abilities not just one!
What if Feyre has some mind controlling ability?
So she can influence people with her sparkly-magic?
Like blowing the stars into people causes their behavior. Emotional changes?
Or maybe take control of their mind. Or bring the dead back to life as servants. That would be 'harrowing' for sure. And...super useful!
Do you think Rhys might have loved a mortal once?I'm not sure. I can't really see that happening. Even if there was a time when humans and Fae lived among each other, I feel like the majority of humans aren't going to survive the Night Court--where it's cold and super dangerous. So I think he'd be limited on how many humans he was even around. But I do think he's loved and lost--I think there's a good chance Tamlin has too. If in my 27 years of life I have experienced more than one love, I'd assume some 400+ year old characters have as well. :P
I do think if Rhysand or his dad fought for the humans, Tamlin wouldn't have such disdain for Rhys though. Tamlin and Rhys also wouldn't have been able to be friends if their courts were enemies. Rhys said he showed Tam the ways of fighting and ladies. The only reason the son of the high lord of night would train the son of the high lord of spring would be if the two courts were allies. You don't train your enemies.
Obviously there was a fallout where Rhysand's dad and Tam's dad were at odds. I don't think it has anything to do with humans though. Most likely it's related to power.
Let's look at facts. Here is what we know 99% (don't trust the fae lol):- The spring court had a gruesome reputation with the treatment of their human slaves
- Rhysand and Tamlin fought and trained together
- Rhysand, Tamlin, and Lucien were once friends
- Lucien loved a lowly fae that was killed, he switched to spring court as emissary, brothers attempted to kill him in case he became powerful
-Tamlin did his fathers bidding as a brutal war band leader, but wanted to be a musician
- Rhysand's father killed Tamlin's parents
- Tamlin was spared and became lord by power
- Tamlin and Lucien didn't like humans
Guys. Tamlin was a war band leader. What was Rhysand when Tamlin had this position? We know that Rhysand trained him, he was there fighting before him most likely. So they fought for the same side/cause. And Rhys must have had a higher place. Maybe he was the one that saved Tamlin? I don't buy the "cauldron spared me luck" one bit. And from what we see of Rhys, he treats Tamlin with disdain while Tamlin openly hates him. Rhysand also says many times how Tamlin has changed from the high fae position he once carried. I think it's safe to say they were both ruthless once and then the curse changed many things. But Tamlin shows an uglier head than Rhysand. So does Lucien in fact. Makes me nervous.
Also, remember that one fae betrayed a secret to the humans? I wonder if Sarah mentioned that for a reason.
Laura wrote: "@Kelly, I really, really think you might be right. When Rhys and Feyre first met, Rhys treated her very differently from other fae, including Tamlin and Lucien. She was in danger and even if she di..."Rhysand told Feyre that as much as he'd like to take a human woman to his bed he has more pressing issues. I think that says a lot right there about the fae mentality. They feast on human passion. Rhys wouldn't fall in love with a human woman but he's not opposed to sleeping with one. Can't say the same for Tamlin because he seemed too disgusted. The catch is that the curse changed both a lot, and that's what matters now. What will both do now that they're powerful again?
I think they are about the same age...in human years that is (25 or 27ish). But in faerie years I'm guessing that Rhys is older. But who knows? A decade or two can make all the difference. I don't think it really matters and I doubt that SJM will give us an exact date. It would make the fact that 19 year old Feyre is dating centuries older men a lot more creepy. I'm guessing that Rhys might have had to grow up a lot faster because of what happened to his parents. They seem to be the good guys at the moment. Guys, characters, like Rhys don't become that way without something dark in their past.
I think we can assume Spring and Night were allies once, even if they're not now. There's no reason Rhysand would bother to show Tamlin the finer aspects of females and swords if they were enemies. And their courts are literally on opposite ends for them to be friends by simply just being neighbor courts. Rhysand also sounds insulted when Tamlin refers to him by his full name, in which Tamlin and Lucien do end up calling him Rhys. I also think Rhysand is older and that he fought in the great war, as he mentioned slaughtering before Lucien was even born.
I also don't think Tamlin sounds like he hates Rhysand. Lucien for sure. But Tamlin and Lucien both seem to dislike him when they thought he was with Amarantha. Now that it's clear he was simply planning to betray her, Tam may feel different. We'll have to see.
Or maybe it was a period of peace and Rhys and Tamlin hung out, training. It seems as if Lucien and Tamlin train on a daily basis during peace times as well. They are all warriors in their own right. So, maybe Tamlin went on diplomatic missions to Rhys and trained with him. Tamlin loved music and may have learned to become a warrior with Rhys.
Oh wait, here's a new one. What if Tamlin acquired his shape shifting powers and had to learn how to master them with Rhys???
After all, Tamlin's brothers were competing for the title of high lord. He would not want to seem like a threat. Tamlin would be ashamed of using them--it was said that many courtiers fled from spring court because of his powers.
With Rhys, Tamlin was able to learn how to channel the beast. For the 'ladies' portion, Tamlin may have been insecure about his beast form. This would be where Rhys teaches Tamlin to accept his beastly nature.
I think the spring people fled AFTER Tamlin became high lord. Because he was young, not trained to rule, and clearly not able to control his beast form well. Not necessarily because of his specific powers, which apparently whoever was said to rule next would get. Or maybe it was a period of peace and Rhys and Tamlin hung out, training.
The thing is though, that's a loooooong way to just hang out. lol Night is at the very top and Spring the bottom. Rhysand shows a disdain for spring in general. I get the impression the Fae prefer to stay in their own courts, but if there are allies, no doubt they see each other.
Rhysand also mentioned the head on the spike was "a nice reminder of the fun days." To me, this indicates they did in fact fight on battlefields together, which makes sense if there's an alliance. Maybe when Spring and Night were allied, Tamlin (young at the time) came with his father to Night and Rhysand sort of showed Tam the ropes a little in terms of females and fighting. Like an 18 year old taking a 12 year old under their wing. I get the impression they had a more...older soldier/new soldier relationship.
Rhysand said "Who do you think TAUGHT your beloved Tamlin the finer aspects of swords and females? You can't truly believe he learned everything in his father's little war-camps."
This indicates, to me, that Rhysand taught Tamlin these things BEFORE Tamlin was shipped off to the war camps.
I don't think they were friends per say, but I think their father's were allies, and Tamlin was young and inexperienced when he met Rhys. And Rhys was probably like "hey kid, that's not how you talk to a lady. Now..." lol and you know, taught him some lessons on females and also on fighting.
Rhys could also have just meant that he didn't get all his skills from the camps. He could have just as well been there and they trained alone in their spare time. Especially because the two courts are so far away so yes, it seems the fathers were allies. They could have gone to each others courts when need be. I feel like this is something that will continue being postulated until we get book 2. There are not enough specifics darn it! I agree that Tamlin changed the way he acted towards Rhys after the curse let up. I also think Tamlin won't fear Rhysand anymore now that he has his powers back. They'll be on a more equal footing, but I think Rhys is still stronger.
Human years vs experience is a very difficult thing to combine. What's 27 vs 29 and 200 vs 400? A huge gap. For fae that would be minuscule but for us that's ancient already. Experience here matters. I think it works for Feyre because she grew up quickly and the only one who really does act older is Rhys anyway. From the way he calculates you can tell he knew the battlefield. Lucien still does act quite young. Tamlin is just impulsive and I think that has more to do with his beast honestly. I wonder if the curse lifted will change that at all.
Speaking of Tamlin's impulsiveness (and how we see him constantly battle to control his inner beast) shows his age compared to Rhysand, I think. Very few people even know he has wings. He rarely lets his temper show and when it does, it's only for a few seconds. I feel like Tam's temper is more raging, in your face, where Rhysand's is fierce but swift, a more silent deadly type.All the high lord's have a beast form, not just Tam, as Rhys pointed out. He has just mastered his more than Tamlin has, likely due to age and experience.
What's interesting is sometimes Feyre "swears she sees shadow talons and wings" from Rhysand and yet no one else seems to notice.
Yes Rhysand's tolerance is very built up compared to Tamlin's. I also think that whatever their beast is, it is a part of their core identity. Like the bat wings and talons with Rhysand match the fact that he is in the night court and able to play games so specifically. It's quite predatory the way he does it. Also notice how Feyre mentions a lot how graceful he is. It's like his very being is designed to lure you in. While Tamlin's beast is VERY feral. And that is accentuated with Tamlin's impulsiveness and wild streak. He's not so lean or tall either but more bulky. Lucien would probably be a fox if he were one.And what if the reason Feyre could see the shadow of those talons and wings is because she herself has some characteristics that are necessary for the same form? Like recognizes like, that kind of thing. I won't be surprised if she gets wings too. And we already have those little night court foreshadows that hint that's where she could belong.
Olya wrote: "Yes Rhysand's tolerance is very built up compared to Tamlin's. I also think that whatever their beast is, it is a part of their core identity. Like the bat wings and talons with Rhysand match the f..."There was some pictures with a female character with wings and SJM wrote that it was Feyre. An other thing to be sure of : Feyre is going to have wings.
Agreed. She's definitely going to have wings. :DI also noticed that Feyre referred to Rhysand as feline and cat-like. I actually think his beast form will resemble a griffon of sorts.
Mirou wrote: "Olya wrote: "Yes Rhysand's tolerance is very built up compared to Tamlin's. I also think that whatever their beast is, it is a part of their core identity. Like the bat wings and talons with Rhysan..."Did not know this! Holy crap. How do you guys think that will come about? Will they just appear one day? lol. What if that really is what Rhysand sensed? I keep thinking about this. On one hand, the mating thing would be very plausible. But as we see, it's also very obvious? Since many people keep coming to that conclusion. I'm not entirely familiar with Sarah's writing yet, but maybe she would throw in a wrench like that? Make us think it's the mating bond but instead it's Rhysand sensing she's similar to him.
I have this absurd idea of a Hades/Persephone theme playing out where she develops wings when she eats something at the night court lol.
WinterRose wrote: "Agreed. She's definitely going to have wings. :D
I also noticed that Feyre referred to Rhysand as feline and cat-like. I actually think his beast form will resemble a griffon of sorts."
I love that! I can imagine that too. And yes she mentions this a lot just like she mentioned Tamlin's claws coming out unintentionally. Basically a lot of contrast built between the two.
about Rhys teaching Feyre how to fly. Somehow I got this titanic scene in my mind, where Rose says she's flying.
It would be so cute if Feyre says the same thing
Hey, what do you guys think about that weird looking lady on Sarah's pinterest? She has her hair up in some weird hairdo...hard to explain...but there are so many pictures of her lately.We don't have that many female characters at the moment. And so far she has not been labeled at all.
But as we see, it's also very obviousThough to many people, the obvious is missed. :P There SHOULD be some hints so that it's not completely left field. But not everyone analyzes quite like we do, haha. So what's obvious to us will still likely surprise a lot of people--and yet I think because of all the foreshadowing, it will be a "oh yeah that makes sense now" moment.
Catcher...I think I know which ones you're talking about. It looks like different women to me--I think it's the same artist, so there's a similarity to them. But they could just be inspiration rather than remind Sarah of a specific character.
Female characters we know we're going to meet are Amren and Mor. The weaver in the wood also seems to be female.
I remember thinking it was strange when Rhysand mentions that Feyre will soon be spitting on "Death's" face when SHE comes to claim her.
Death is mentioned as a she, and the word itself was capitalized like a name. Which makes me wonder if we'll get some "Death" character.
WinterRose wrote: "But as we see, it's also very obviousThough to many people, the obvious is missed. :P There SHOULD be some hints so that it's not completely left field. But not everyone analyzes quite like we do..."
Whoa whoa whoa! I really need to finish my re-read already. I'm so rusty. When did the death quote happen? I can't remember at all! But that would make SO much sense considering all the mythology we are already getting. I did some looking around and I'm shocked that there are many people still aboard the Tamlin/Feyre ship. No, not shocked exactly. But just that they don't see how the relationship is bad for both characters. Tumblr is so divided and they have these arguments with each other. I hope Sarah will handle the complaints well from Tamlin shippers. There are bound to be some. Good point on the mating part too. It can't be entirely out of the blue. I forget that not everyone is Feyre and Rhysand trash lol.
And Catcher I was going to say the same! I notice that the more detailed a photo is, it's usually for aesthetics or inspiration. For fae and monsters alike. But if it's more specific (less decor and more focus on character) then that's something that catches my eye. This photo never fails to creep me out though: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/2468536...
“Rhysand bellowed my name as I lost my grip on the room.”I think at this point it can clearly be seen that Rhysand is well on his to falling in love with Feyre. He might already have, given his visceral reaction to Amarantha's onslaught on Feyre. A post I read stated how Rhysand basically disregarded all of his efforts to convince Amarantha of his loyalty when he saw Feyre getting attacked. For nearly five decades, Rhys had carefully structured a persona that would optimize the interests of the Night Court. Rhys was subjected to sexual abuse and verbal insults such as 'whore' along with the hatred of Fae who believed him to be devoted to Amarantha. Not only this, but 'dealing' with Fae that tried to escape must have been mentally debilitating and from Maas' writing, it can be pretty much assumed that the Summer faerie was not Rhy's first victim under Amarantha's orders. To have tossed this all to the side, his court, his work and suffering and even himself in the face of losing one human indicated Rhy's unyielding attachment to Feyre.
Even with their initial acquaintance, Feyre's character was defined as being evenly matched with Rhys. Feyre challenged him, surprised him and delighted him. In the pit, Feyre displayed her cunning and dare for all Fae and succeeded in the first challenge against Amarantha. Taking down the worm and then insulting Amarantha took nerve, something Rhysand respects and is even impressed by. He can probably already feel a sort of kinship with Feyre once he sees her actions toward Amarantha; probably felt the same thrill of satisfaction Feyre did when Amarantha had her dress splotched with mud.
Then Feyre attempts to bargain with Rhys, which really brings into light the frank nature in which she has with Rhysand. He recognizes this, and likes it. It's fun for Rhys to bicker with her, but at the same time refreshing to have someone so open with him. He hasn't had that sort of freedom in 49 years and even before then, the Night Court doesn't seem to be the place where Fae gathered and spoke about their deepest secrets, desires and worries only to join hands and sing Kumbaya after. This lays the grounding for their balance as equals.
Later on when Feyre meets Rhys in his bedroom, the two speak honestly as well. Feyre gives insight into how Amarantha may be testing Rhys, something he didn’t seem to realize before speaking with Feyre. Rhys clearly admires this sort of resourcefulness and even laughs when Feyre throws a joke into their conversation. Again, reasserting their parallel and match. And then the scene significantly develops when Rhys feels comfortable enough to share with Feyre something deeply personal and meaningful to him; his wings, and in large part his true identity. A conjecture of sorts maybe, but I think that part of why Rhys loves his wings and flying so much is the liberation he feels from it. Something he can do to get away from his responsibilities as a High Lord and to just escape. He feels the same type of release with Feyre and this therefore opens the gates to their emotional relationship; that feeling of being completely open, vulnerable and bare to each other.
This is only heightened when Rhys confirms his mutual hatred for Amarantha with Feyre. Rhys was utterly candid to Feyre and she comes to finally acquiesce to his motives and actions. Feyre came to understand the reasoning behind everything Rhysand did, and while this set another layer of intimacy to their relationship, the two still managed to maintain levity through the sardonic humour they both have and enjoy. Feyre then raises the circumstances of Rhys’ bargain with her. Feyre was correct in stating that Rhys did not have to bargain with her about the duration of her stay at the Night Court. It is here that Feyre comes to FULL acceptance and comfort with Rhys. Feyre saw through Rhys and Rhys understands that she sees him. And even more importantly, Rhys smiles at this and appreciates this from her. He may have even unconsciously expected it from her at this point, that smile almost being a sort of “that’s my girl” when she comes to understand his intentions, him—again.
So when Rhys is faced with Feyre’s impending death, he screams her name over and over again. He cares immensely about her because she sees him and I don’t think that anyone else has had that with him before (we’ll have to wait for ACOMAF to confirm). Half in love with Feyre already, when Rhys come to see her after she becomes a high fae, their conversation only locks Rhysand into an irrevocable situation—love. Rhys even comments, “Before your beloved whisks you away forever.” and later “Everything I love has always had a tendency to be taken away from me. I tell very few about the wings. Or the flying.” and maybe this is a stretch but I think unconsciously he may have been relating his constant loss in general and his loss of Feyre (no more late night sarcastic disputes). I think he feels a tinge of sadness over this knowing Feyre is back in Tamlin’s arms. But he came anyways, because he cares about how she feels and her well-being. And then:
“I’m an immortal—who has been mortal. This body …” I looked down at my hand, so clean and shining—a mockery of what I’d done. “This body is different, but this”—I put my hand on my chest, my heart—“this is still human. Maybe it always will be. But it would have been easier to live with it …” My throat welled. “Easier to live with what I did if my heart had changed, too. Maybe I wouldn’t care so much; maybe I could convince myself their deaths weren’t in vain. Maybe immortality will take that away. I can’t tell whether I want it to.”
Rhysand stared at me for long enough that I faced him. “Be glad of your human heart, Feyre. Pity those who don’t feel anything at all.”
Which was basically the final strike against Rhys. He completely empathizes with her on this, especially with what he was faced to do under Amarantha’s reign, and most likely something he has dealt with in his life before Amarantha as a High Lord’s son. Rhys sees her extreme kindness and is stunned at her revelation. Rhysand has never been one to be rendered speechless and it takes him awhile to formulate a response which goes to show the severity of Feyre's impact on him. She's always made an impression on him, but here she dives into the depth and all he can do is stare at her vastness. I can't wait to see what Maas does with this in ACOMAF. Hopefully things will swing in the Feysand direction!
I need Rhys more in Feyre's life. He's one bad ass character and has more sides in him that has to be shown and I love the intrigue he brings in the book. He'll be a good match for Feyre. He makes her work her mind and gets what he wants. But it would be dumb of Feyre to dump Tam after fighting for him so much. It's too dumb. But if she does and goes to Rhys I won't complain. :/
Tamlin is going to get revenge on Rhys once he crashes her wedding!!!In the ACOMAF what's going to happen next section for Sarah's character interview, he talks about how anyone who will disturb the peace will face 'consequences'.
I have a feeling that he will want vengeance once Feyre goes to night court. It will be so entertaining to see how he carries it out!
Ooh ^ Perhaps he resorts to his old ways if he does this? Would be interesting to see that side of him. As Rhys has hinted in ACOTAR- it seems like Tam definitely had a bloodthirsty side.I'm curious for Feyre to see that too.
ALSO- I'm not subscribed to it- but did anyone receive Sarah's newsletter? I'm hoping we'll finally get some teasers by the end of February or early March...
@Souffle98 Loved your meta. And yes, hope Feysand comes to light in book 2!
Aqsa wrote: "Ooh ^ Perhaps he resorts to his old ways if he does this? Would be interesting to see that side of him. As Rhys has hinted in ACOTAR- it seems like Tam definitely had a bloodthirsty side.I'm curio..."
Ah thank you! Feysand for the long run!
Souffle98 wrote: "Ah thank you! Feysand for the long run!"Absolutely, 100% for this.
I'm hoping when (it's not even a question of "if" anymore, let's be real) they fall for each other, it's a slow burn. With Feyre and Tamlin it was kind of fast and lustful, but I have a feeling that it's gonna be way more angsty with Rhys.
I want Feyre and Rhys to stare into each others eyes in a way that's more intimate than kissing, things being communicated between them that they wouldn't even be able to put into words.
I want gentle placement of a hand on top of the others, and that touch being the only thing tethering them to the present after all the trauma they had suffered Under the Mountain (plus all the stuff they have to deal with in the future).
If they hug, I want it to drive them both insane. Just......Feyre's scent like soft, sun-warmed grass, and Rhys like the warm breeze in the night when you're staring at the sky and you feel how vast and great and unknown it is.
And the feeling of being able to relax because they understand what they've gone through, because they both know what's it's like to do things for the people that they're responsible for and love. And the walls coming down, both of them finding a common ground and just generally being there for each other when they need them.
71 days till ACOMAF..........
Oh. My. God.
Alyana wrote: "Souffle98 wrote: "Ah thank you! Feysand for the long run!"Absolutely, 100% for this.
I'm hoping when (it's not even a question of "if" anymore, let's be real) they fall for each other, it's a s..."
Umm, yes please! I've said this before in this thread but my favorite book couple is Blue and Gansey from The Raven Boys. They've been all about the slow burn through the whole series and it's been the most amazing thing I've ever read. There's something to be said for instant gratification but the feeling of complete satisfaction and the sense that everything in the literary world is as it should be is that you get from a true slow burn is amazing.
I've just finished reading ACOTAR for the second time, and I had completely forgotten about the stumbling look from Rhys the first time around. My first thought was that he imprinted on her, or somehow saw her as his true mate. I hope that's the case. I really like him a lot more than I do Tamlin.To me Fayre wasn't just going through the whole ordeal with Amarantha because of her love for Tamlin, but for her compassion for the fae who didn't want to be ruled by Amarantha. She was acting as their champion, not just as someone who was in love with a guy.
Question guys: The part where Maas writes, “I glanced at the wings tucked into his powerful body, and my voice was hoarse as I spoke. “You never told me you loved the wings—or the flying.” No, he’d made his shape-shifting seem … base, useless, boring.” Did I miss something? When did Rhys give indication of this? How did Feyre know?
@Souffle98 Ah! Rhys mentions it in his bedroom remember? When Feyre has been sent to work and she keeps cleaning (lentils I think??) from his fireplace!He shifts in front of her and I don't recall the exact dialogue but his words did seem like he was being very nonchalant about his shape shifting and the wings/talons etc. So Feyre remembered this.
I loved that scene. (We even see Rhys use compulsion on the other fae which was so cool and just probably the tip of what he is capable of with his powers)
I also love how she says that to him!
"You never told me you loved the wings—or the flying.”
Its so cute! It shows that they have this subtle intimate bond and friendship and that Feyre EXPECTED him to open up to her about something so personal. It really shows the growth their relationship and in her feelings and understanding of him.
AHHHHH IS IT MAY YET.
Sorry that this is a little random. But I'm still re-reading this slowly and I remember we discussed Nesta. This quote seals my hatred for her:“There are days,” Nesta said as she paused in front
of the door to her room, across from mine, “when I want to ask him if he remembers the years he
almost let us starve to death.”
“You spent every copper I could get, too,” I reminded her.
“I knew you could always get more. And if you couldn’t, then I wanted to see if he would ever try
to do it himself, instead of carving those bits of wood. If he would actually go out and fight for us. I
couldn’t take care of us, not the way you did. I hated you for that. But I hated him more. I still do.”
She is SUCH a hypocrite. Saying she couldn't take care of them but blaming her father who at least had the excuse of being crippled? If she was so smart and strong then why didn't she do anything? I don't buy those poor excuses. I don't want to see her get good things. I want change and hard work because she did nothing. Rant over.
I agree Olya. I had forgotten how much I hated Nesta until I went back and re-read it, lol. I love many "bad" characters--characters that are vicious, do terrible deeds for the greater good, etc. But Nesta just came across as a spoiled, selfish and entitled brat. I have little patience for those types of characters.What I want for her is a dose of hard labor and reality. No more pampered princess. I think she has potential, but it will take a lot more growth for me to get past how terrible she treated Feyre.
Agreed. I mean she never even apologized for being so rude to Feyre while Feyre was taking care of her. At least Elaine was nice. I hope Sarah doesn't excuse her behavior but gives her the growth she needs. Since she'll be with the family there is potential for that.
Lmao, I was reading through ACOTAR again and I saw this: “Believe me, I would have liked nothing more than to enjoy you—but there are bigger things at stake than taking a human woman to my bed.”
Is it horrible that my immediate thought was 'NOT ANYMORE. They need to get together!!!' ? xD
May is too goddamn far away.
Reading ACOTAR the second time made me hate Nesta more. Also, Rhys seems a little bit more understandable...yet creepier.
Am I the only one to find him creepy? If Tamlin and Lucien were not there, would he have 'enjoyed' her while she was drugged?
I've been convinced I'm on Team Rhysand. I want it in all its juicy glory. Also I've seen a lot of you reference Maas' other books. Should I read those to occupy my time?
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It's funny because I just read an analysis of this very switch in names: http://xnightwolfx.tumblr.com/post/13...
"When I was re-reading ACOTAR, I noticed something interesting about how and when Feyre uses Rhysand’s name. As we learn during Rhys’s visit to the Spring Court, only his enemies and prisoners refer to him as Rhysand instead of Rhys. Even Lucien, who considers him an enemy now, still calls him Rhys, which serves to remind the reader of their old friendship and current estrangement.
Feyre, of course, is terrified of (and yet attracted to) the High Lord of the Night Court, and she consistently refers to him as Rhysand for the majority of their interactions. What I found interesting, though, is when the shift in inner monologue starts switching from Rhysand the Enemy to Rhys the Ally and Friend. When he plays his part as Amarantha’s whore, he is Rhysand in Feyre’s mind, but in her moments of empathy, she slips and calls him Rhys. What’s really cool is that this is such a subtle way to show her changing feelings towards him over the course of ACOTAR, as she begins to slowly see past his mask to the man beneath.
So, some examples of this shift, when Rhysand suddenly becomes Rhys:
- When Rhys spares the Summer High Lord and his fae. Rather than reveal their secret or shatter the fae’s mind, Rhys keeps quiet and shows mercy by ending the fae’s life quickly.Feyre: “[…]out of the corner of my eye I saw the Summer High Lord sag a bit–enough to make me wonder…wonder what sort of choice Rhys had made in that moment he’d taken to search the male’s mind. […] Rhys slipped a hand out of his pocket, and it dangled at his side.” Feyre sees Rhys in this moment, though to all the courts he is still Rhysand, a sentiment that is represented and symbolized by Amarantha’s continuous use of his full name when ordering him to extract the fae’s secrets and shatter his mind. Only Feyre sees the hint of mercy and humanity in Rhys, the silent and invisible struggle taking place in his mind.
- Interestingly enough, Feyre thinks of him as Rhys when he kisses her in the hallway. This is a complicated scene since he does it because Amarantha is about to discover Feyre and Tamlin’s secret, but as Feyre’s other actions/responses have indicated previously, her thinking of him as Rhys in this moment could signal her underlying attraction to him. (Even though she wants to hit him.) But yeah, he kisses her and she thinks of him as Rhys, and then when Amarantha and the others appear, Feyre immediately thinks of him as Rhysand. He has donned his mask to re-enter the game (though, as she realizes later, he had already donned the mask moments earlier, during the kiss itself). He continues to be Rhysand in front of the court afterward, though he is Rhys when he lets her go for the night, saying, “I’m tired of you for tonight. […] Go back to your cell.”
-In the cell, Feyre also thinks of him as Rhys.
It is not Rhysand who steps out of the shadows into her cell the night before the Third Task, but Rhys. This is a key scene between the two because he takes off the mask for her yet again. He’s lonely and afraid, and the only person he feels he can trust is Feyre. So he talks to her as himself - not the villain, not the whore, but as a man who is doing everything in his limited power to protect his court. Feyre says that “their world rested on my shoulders, Rhys had said.” This transition in names is important because it symbolizes Feyre’s growing trust in and understanding of Rhys. This is one of their most sincere conversations, and it sets them up for their actions in the battle following the Third Task.
- AND MY FAVORITE MOMENT OF TRANSITION: THE FINAL BATTLE SCENE. When Amarantha is torturing Feyre, Rhys finally rips off the proverbial mask to save her. (He might as well have flung it off the mountain for all he seemed to care about maintaining appearances here lol). This is such a great scene because he didn’t HAVE to save her. The only person truly at risk in this moment was Feyre; Rhys could have waited and schemed a new way to stop Amarantha and save his court. But he doesn’t. He sees Feyre in pain and can’t stand it. Even though he knows it is futile, even though he KNOWS this can only lead to his death, he still goes to her aid, when no one else would or could. (When you win his loyalty, JEEZ does he come through.)
But yes, Rhys screams her name MULTIPLE times “like he cared” and takes an ash dagger to Amarantha (though unsuccessfully). At this point, at the beginning of his fight, he is Rhysand. We get to see how the public and Feyre see him in this moment, before they understand the truth. He is Rhysand, the villain and whore. But his actions don’t add up with his persona; he’s FIGHTING Amarantha, and by the point that he is lying on the bloody, cracked tile, groaning in pain, Feyre (and the others) finally understand. His carefully crafted illusion is shattered: he is not Rhysand, but Rhys. Not their enemy, but their friend. He had been plotting against Amarantha all of this time. An anti-hero, indeed.
Feyre subtly switches from calling him Rhysand to Rhys at this point: “Rhys groaned. ‘Stop,’ I breathed, blood filling my mouth as I strained a hand to reach her feet. ‘Please.’ Rhys’s arms buckled as he fought to rise, and blood dripped from his nose, splattering on the marble. His eyes met mine. The bond between us went taut.”
Ah, the bond. I loved the subtle transition in his name leading up to this moment of connection; it really solidifies Feyre’s empathy and understanding of him. Feyre finally sees Rhys for who he is, and she tries to save him in return - the fae who risked everything so she wouldn’t fight alone or die alone. They are more alike than Feyre could have ever realized.
- And finally the famous good-bye scene at the end.
Yep, Rhys appears here as well, though it’s still mixed in with Rhysand. While they discuss the bargain, Feyre says that “Rhys smiled slightly, his wings rustling and then settling,” and later, “Rhys flashed a grin.” Feyre can finally see beyond his mask, and the name Rhys flows more readily in her thoughts. This isn’t to say that Rhysand disappears entirely, because he doesn’t. But that’s part of the reason why I’m so excited for ACOMAF. Right now there is still the split in his persona between Rhysand and Rhys, and while Feyre is beginning to become more adept at seeing Rhys, the Rhysand mask isn’t going to come and STAY completely off around her until ACOMAF. As SJM said, Feyre is going to discover all of his secrets in book 2. Only THEN do I think will we be seeing a lot more of the real Rhys beneath the scary High Lord Rhysand persona he must put on. It’s going to be so awesome.
As Feyre says in that last scene with him, “I didn’t doubt I’d see Rhys again soon.” I don’t doubt it, either; in fact, I think we’ll be seeing a LOT more of Rhys, and I’m excited to see just what he’s like. :)
(Also, on a side note, I love the fact that the modified ACOMAF synopsis says that Feyre will begin to “understand her growing feelings for Rhys.” Not Rhysand, but Rhys. This probably wasn’t intentional, but I still loved it, because it’s so true. It’s Rhys that she feels so connected to, beneath his mask.)
…dear goodness, this became much longer than I planned again. Why do all of my Rhys-meta posts become so LONG? Ah well, hope you guys enjoyed! :)"